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Europe's premier competition remains Chelsea's hard-to-catch trophy. They desire it intensely. However, their credentials suffered in the Netherlands, a stalemate against Twente far from the ideal start in a competition they aim to dominate.

Despite their control of the ball, the home side who took the lead, via skipper Danique van Ginkel, before Sandy Baltimore scored from the penalty mark for the equaliser.

Home Success Yet Continental Disappointment

Every trophy is precious, yet for the squad which has repeatedly won it all, the longing for the final piece is powerful. It eluded them under Emma Hayes’ tenure, loss against Barcelona in the championship match the closest they got. Three straight last-four losses to Barcelona, including a heavy combined loss last season, have stung each time.

Squad Rotation Takes Its Toll

The coach showcased her squad's depth ahead of the visit to Enschede, featuring just four players from the previous match on the pitch, but it proved costly as they started their European journey in a new era – the group stage now a league phase similar to the male competition.

The two sides met in last season's opening round, as Chelsea inflicting a heavy overall loss to the Eredivisie winners. The captain stated they'd look a bit changed one year on. “I trust we've matured somewhat and can address our past mistakes,” she added.

Twente's Maturity On Display

On home turf that maturity showed, the hosts avoided to compete with the Blues' pressure or engage individually, they were an efficient unit, irritating the Blues who launched repeated attacks toward the goal.

Twente's players celebrate Danique van Ginkel after her opening goal.

However, the hosts created the top chance in the first period. A player had room after a neat exchange with Jill Roord, but instead of aiming for goal she passed for the team's top scorer but the effort was cleared by a defender.

Chelsea showed spirit but a lack of cohesion, the changes having an impact, especially in attack. Maika Hamano should have done better with a chance but blasted high from the spot in a key moment, while the keeper made key saves.

After the Break Drama

In the second half, a recent addition found the net, turning in a low cross, yet the assistant was raised, the passer deemed offside.

The coach turned to the substitutes in an attempt to alter the dynamics soon after. Two players were replaced, one due to a concussion, for new energy and an ex- hosts' star.

Wasted Opportunities

Twente had another golden chance to go ahead just before the hour mark. After regaining possession in attack, a low cross found a player at the far post yet a challenge denied the chance.

The hosts' chances were scarce and as each missed without a goal, it seemed that Twente might pay the price. However, it was Chelsea regretting their wastefulness. A pass back reached the captain who moved onto her right foot and struck into the net.

Late Equalizer

Chelsea kept pushing. They haven't delivered exciting performances this term but they have earned points and in the Netherlands they extended that trend. A foul on a player earned the away side a penalty, although they might have earned one earlier when a late boot hit a teammate. Baltimore converted to tie the game.

A victory escaped them, but they have chances to recover in future matches ahead of meeting familiar foes and title winners.